How to Use Two-Factor Authentication

How to Enable and Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) in WordPress

Prerequisite:
Before starting, download and install the Google Authenticator app on your mobile device:

Download Google Authenticator for IOS

Download Google Authenticator for Android

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Log in to WordPress

Log in to your WordPress dashboard using your username and password.

Go to Your Profile

From the top right menu (or top left in RTL languages), click on your username and choose Edit Profile.

📸 Show the user dropdown and profile menu option.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

In the Two-Factor Options section, find the Authenticator App row and check the box labeled Enable Authenticator App.

📸 Screenshot of the Two-Factor Options section with the checkbox highlighted.

Open the Google Authenticator App

• Launch the Google Authenticator app on your phone.
• Tap the + button at the bottom.
• Choose Scan a QR Code.
• If prompted, allow camera access so you can scan the code.

📸The app interface when adding a new account and scanning a QR code.

Scan the QR Code and Enter the Code

• Use your phone to scan the QR code shown on your WordPress profile page.
• After scanning, your website name and username will appear in the app along with a 6-digit code.
• Enter this code in the field below the QR code on your WordPress profile, then click Submit.

Note: The code is time-based and changes every 30 seconds. Be sure to enter it quickly.

📸 WordPress profile page showing the QR code and input field.

Save Changes

Scroll down and click Update Profile to save the settings.

From Now On:

Each time you log in to your WordPress account:

• Enter your username (or email) and password.
• You’ll be prompted to enter a temporary code.
• Open the Google Authenticator app and enter the 6-digit code shown next to your website.

You’ll be logged in after successfully entering the code.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully enabled Two-Factor Authentication to add an important layer of security to your WordPress account.

Need Help Using the Google Authenticator App?
Click here for our full guide on how to use the Google Authenticator app.
(Learn how to back up your codes, transfer them to a new phone, and more.)